A general practitioner (GP) in North Tyneside has reported an increase in mental health issues among patients, which they attribute to stress related to personal debt. This concern follows findings from Citizens Advice, which indicate that the North East of England ranks second in the country for individuals needing professional help with debt, with only London having a higher number.
In 2024, the debt charity StepChange revealed that the North East had the highest ratio of clients seeking assistance, with 37 clients for every 10,000 adults. The main reasons cited by these clients for their financial struggles include a rise in the cost of living, which affects 19.3% of cases, and lack of financial control, at 19%. Both figures exceed the national averages of 17.7% and 17.9%, respectively. Citizens Advice noted that many individuals are sinking deeper into debt to cover essential costs like food and fuel, even while feeling pressure to provide for the holiday season.
Dr. Kamlesh Sreekissoon mentioned that many patients are working multiple jobs, particularly leading up to Christmas, as they attempt to manage their debts. He indicated that the stress from financial issues is often intensified by family responsibilities, such as caring for elderly relatives. He emphasized that his patients’ debts are typically not the result of discretionary spending but arise from the struggle to meet basic needs. The GP observed that individuals often work long hours, which affects their ability to spend time with their families, leading to burnout and mental fatigue.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c62vk7e0w4lo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss